The Office of Public Works (OPW) has announced the upcoming development of Leeson Lane office building in Dublin 2. The completed project will operate as a flexible, multi-occupancy government headquarters and will be an exemplar for energy efficiency. Duggan Brothers (Contractors) Ltd have been appointed as main contractor.

The location is an OPW-owned, brownfield site in the city centre. It is in close proximity to transport links and numerous government departments.

Minister of State for the Office of Public Works, Mr. Patrick O’Donovan T.D., today said: “I am delighted to announce this major new development that will further enhance the make-up of modern office accommodation in the care of the OPW.”

The project involves the restoration and refurbishment of a historic building, Spruce House, a former dispensary building, and the construction of a new 7-storey (over basement) office building, linked to the rear of the dispensary building at ground and first floor levels. Site development works involve the reinstatement of Leeson Place, a historic laneway, and includes hard landscaping and new boundary treatments.

In compliance with the European Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, the new building has been designed to achieve nZEB (nearly Zero Energy Buildings) standard with very high energy performance. The building will be predominantly naturally ventilated and a significant amount of its energy requirements will come from renewable sources. The use of heat pump technology and the application of the OPW’s Green Procurement Policy will further mitigate the climate change impact of the project. All EU regulatory requirements in relation to building material inputs, waste management and the re-use and recycling of waste materials have been incorporated into the project works requirements.

The project is funded by the Office of Public Works. On completion, the development of this brownfield site will act as a flagship office development for the OPW, being space efficient and compliant with nZEB, while restoring and safeguarding a fine example of built heritage into the future and enhancing the urban realm.